The Fiji Disabled Peoples Federation was first established by a group of persons with disabilities in the late 70’s and was originally known as the Fiji Paraplegic Committee, the movement was started because of an interest in Fijian sports. In 1984, the name was changed to the Fiji Disabled Peoples Association which included the cross disability sector and was later registered and incorporated under the provisions of the Charitable Trust Act (CAP 67). In 2012, the name changed to what it is today, the Fiji Disabled Peoples Federation (FDPF), and it is an umbrella body to five major affiliates:
- Spinal Injury Association
- United Blind Persons of Fiji
- Fiji Association of the Deaf
- Psychiatric Survivors Association
- Association for Person with Intellectual Disabilities Fiji
Further to this FDPF has established and continued support for 17 community based branches throughout Fiji
From its humbled beginnings, the organisation was established by persons with disabilities for persons with disabilities. To date, this tradition continues as persons with disabilities continue to be at the helm of the organisation advocating to and for persons with disabilities in Fiji. The Fiji Disabled Peoples Federation is a founding member of the Pacific Disability Forum who is the voice for Disabled Peoples Organizations regionally.
The Fiji Disabled Peoples Federation adopts the United Nations Declaration framework and instruments. The functions and deliveries of FDPF, its affiliates and branches are aligned to the realisation of the 50 articles of the UNCRPD. On July 2nd, 2010, Fiji signed the UNCRPD in New York and Fiji understands persons with disabilities are looking forward to the ratification of this important convention. This will ensure appropriate recognition of the rights of persons with disabilities in Fiji both in the areas of policies and budgetary allocations.
FDPF is involved in a number of activities including advocacy and training programs. FDPF is committed to ensuring that persons with disabilities lead independent lives and are self represented at all levels of decision making. FDPF is governed by a Board of Officers who are voted into office for two years of service. It strives to employ professional staff who are persons with disabilities to manage the organisation.five